Posted by Larry Gibson on Thursday, 13 July 2017, at 8:50 p.m., in response to Re: Custer rifle, posted by Dick Hosmer on Thursday, 13 July 2017, at 8:25 p.m.

Dick

It's obvious changes have been made to the rifle as described by Mike. That's understandable as it is very common with captured weapons used by Indians. Seldom did any survive in "original" condition or configuration. I assume to the true collector such as yourself and others here any changes made devalue the collectability of the firearm. However, to historical collectors the changes made add to the "romance" of the piece and add to the value. Just a matter of perspective.

If Mike pursues a forensic testing of the rifle then comparative analysis of the fired case(s) and a fired bullet(s)would be best. I really don't know if that can be done today?